Asthma attack how long does it last

With proper treatment and an asthma management plan, you can reduce your symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life. Talk to your health care provider about your asthma symptoms and be sure to discuss any changes in your asthma management or status. Medical Review September Asthma What Are the Symptoms of Asthma? Common symptoms of asthma include: Coughing Wheezing a whistling, squeaky sound when you breathe Shortness of breath Rapid breathing Chest tightness. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website.

Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website.

We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent.

You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Necessary Necessary. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non-necessary Non-necessary. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

These are signs your asthma isn't well controlled, and you need to work with your doctor to change your treatment. If your asthma symptoms flare up when you have a cold or the flu, take steps to avoid an asthma attack by watching your lung function and symptoms and adjusting your treatment as needed.

Be sure to reduce exposure to your allergy triggers, and wear a face mask when exercising in cold weather. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview During an asthma attack, also called an asthma exacerbation, the airways become swollen and inflamed. More Information Asthma attack video. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic.

More Information Asthma: Colds and flu. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Ferri FF. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor Philadelphia, Pa. Accessed July 9, It can also be beneficial to learn an asthma breathing technique. There are various breathing techniques that can help asthma and knowing how to breathe properly could help if something unexpectedly triggers an attack.

You will find a wealth of further information about allergies and asthma on our website, and we hope you will explore it. You can also get in touch with us — we would love to hear from you! What is an asthma attack? Symptoms of an asthma attack Symptoms of an asthma attack include: Difficulty breathing Shortness of breath Wheezing Coughing A feeling of pressure or tightness in your chest Difficulty talking Getting no relief from using your normal blue reliever inhaler Going pale in colour, sometimes with blue lips or fingernails.

What to do when having an asthma attack? Sit upright in a comfortable position do not lie down and loosen any tight clothing. Leaning forward slightly or sitting backwards on a chair may help your breathing. Breathe slowly and deeply. If you do have your reliever inhaler usually blue , take one puff every seconds up to a maximum of 10 puffs. If you have a spacer device to hand, use that to administer the inhaler, as it can help the medicine get into your airways more efficiently.

Stay as calm as you can, as panic and anxiety can make your symptoms worse. In the case of adults, symptoms can include: A feeling of tightness or pressure in your chest Tightened neck or chest muscles, which cause the skin and soft tissue in your chest wall to skin in — this is called a chest retraction Feeling fatigued, nervous or edgy — this can be an early warning sign of an impending asthma attack.

Symptoms in children In young children it can sometimes be hard to identify signs and symptoms of asthma. Some children may also say their tummy or chest aches.